A new WhatsApp beta update has revealed the presence of several Snapchat-style image editing features; among them, the ability to send drawings to contacts.
According to several new rumours, WhatsApp is looking to diversify its feature set and usher in several new features to help it compete against rival messaging platforms. Now, thanks to a beta update, users have discovered the presence of Snapchat-style image editing tools.
While WhatsApp already allows users to edit and crop images which can be sent to contacts, the beta update – available to beta testers on the Google Play Store – contains over 420 dormant files and six new icons linked to image editing tools.
Read: WhatsApp releases desktop clients for Mac and Windows
One discovery made so far after users investigated the file batch was the presence of drawing tools, through which users might be able to draw across images or compose their own creations before sending them in a chat; the file can be found within the update in draw_tool_background_normal.xml and draw_tool_background_selected.xml.
Image editing would supplement a wide range of new and forthcoming WhatsApp features. Recently, the platform gained support for formatted text, document sharing, and a recent report indicated that the platform would soon receive an update which would enable music sharing and big emoji support.
Reportedly, users will soon be able to exchange tracks over Apple Music should they have an active subscription.
The latest beta version of the app – version 2.16.150 – is available on the Google Play Store to beta testers. The update can further be found on WhatsApp’s official website.
Read: WhatsApp‘s latest update will bring music sharing, big emoji, and more
What are your thoughts on the presence of image editing features in WhatsApp? Can the Facebook-owned instant messaging app conquer the likes of Snapchat? Be sure to let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Follow Bryan Smith on Twitter: @bryansmithSA
Source: Neurogadget
